Research Specialist V

TX-HHSC-DSHS-DFPS • Austin, TX

4d • Hybrid

About The Position

Join the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) and be part of a team committed to creating a positive impact in the lives of fellow Texans. At HHSC, your contributions matter, and we support you at each stage of your life and work journey. Our comprehensive benefits package includes 100% paid employee health insurance for full-time eligible employees, a defined benefit pension plan, generous time off benefits, numerous opportunities for career advancement and more. Explore more details on the Benefits of Working at HHS webpage.

The Research Specialist (RS) V reports to the Manager of the Health Programs team within the Data Dissemination and Reporting (DD&R) unit of the Office of Data, Analytics, and Performance (DAP) in HHSC. They perform essential analytics and research on health and human services program data for legislative entities, federal partners, other state agencies, and HHSC leadership to support policy development and program evaluation. With considerable latitude, the RS V develops, plans, and implements advanced research on agency programs (e.g., Medicaid, CHIP); applies advanced statistical methods to program related eligibility and healthcare administration data; coordinates project design, statistical analysis, and reporting; writes advanced scripts and code for computer-based statistics applications. This position also assists internal partners in testing new data sources and improving analytical methods and strategies to ensure effective data reporting.

Requirements

• Knowledge of scientific research methods, statistical techniques, mathematics, and their application to research analysis.
• Knowledge of medical records systems or clinical coding practice.
• Skill in using SAS, SQL, R, STATA, or other statistical software.
• Skill in using Microsoft SSMS, Oracle SQL Developer, or other database management software.
• Skill in using Microsoft Excel or other spreadsheet software.
• Skill in graphical and tabular presentation of data.
• Skill in verbal and written communications.
• Ability to manage, manipulate, and analyze large, complex datasets.
• Ability to plan, organize, and conduct research projects.
• Ability to work in teams that may cross departments and/or agencies, and to communicate effectively with team members.
• Ability to develop and interpret statistical data charts and tables.
• Ability to interpret and present research findings.
• Ability to exercise independent judgment and show initiative.
• A minimum of four years college level education or graduation from an accredited college or university in social and behavioral sciences, natural sciences, or related field.
• Experience analyzing data using computer software package applications including, but not limited to, SPSS, SAS, or SQL.
• Four or more years work experience with collection, analyses, or dissemination of health or human services data.

Nice To Haves

• Master’s degree or higher preferred.

Responsibilities

• Prepares a variety of reports, studies, and other deliverables containing analyses of health and human services data related to Medicaid, CHIP, SNAP, and TANF programs, the methods and procedures used, and relevant sources referenced for the administration and policy analysts, Texas Legislature, Governor’s Office, other state agencies, and special interest groups.
• Plans and/or conducts highly advanced research on the agency’s programs. Develops and implements research methods and analytical procedures; assesses validity of statistical methods and/or procedures for appropriate application; applies advanced statistical methods to health and human services related data; coordinates project design, planning, statistical analysis, and/or reporting; and writes advanced scripts and code for computer-based statistics applications.
• Provides consultation and assistance to internal staff and other HHS agencies in developing methods and strategies for effective reporting of data and analyses. Provides for testing and evaluation of newly developed knowledge, methods, and techniques. Defines requirements for development/modification of agency interface files and tests for accuracy, reliability, and validity. Consults in policy development and revision to determine impact on reporting capabilities and current/future research.
• Statewide travel will be required.

Benefits

• Our comprehensive benefits package includes 100% paid employee health insurance for full-time eligible employees, a defined benefit pension plan, generous time off benefits, numerous opportunities for career advancement and more.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees